As competition for jobs increases, more and more employers are requiring fitness instructors to carry various certifications, reports the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. While most step aerobics group trainers do not have to hold degrees and other fitness credentials, the training can be useful for the instructors, the fitness facility owners and, most importantly, the clients.
Getting Started
You must be physically fit to teach step aerobics classes. To break into the field, many aerobic instructors start out by participating in an aerobics class. By letting the current instructor know your intentions, you may be singled out to lead the class occasionally. When the facility has an opening, you may be provided with an audition. You could start out as a substitute or fill-in instructor while you pursue certifications and credentials to create and teach your own step aerobics classes.
Curriculum
A step aerobics instructor certification often is provided through certifying agencies and professional fitness organizations as a weekend course or day-long workshop. Certified instructors often utilize the courses as continuing education credits. A common curriculum may consist of instruction in anatomy, exercise science and basic aerobic exercises. Most courses include demonstrations and oral and written exams.
Specialties
Step aerobics instructors can take additional courses to add specialty certifications to their credentials, making themselves more marketable. For example, according to the Aerobics and Fitness Association of America a course in choreography and advanced step skills could help you work out extensive dance routines in your step classes as well as learn how to effectively incorporate music in your classes. Courses that teach you how to motivate clients could help you increase your business and cultivate new clients.
Advancement
To advance in the fitness field, certain certifications are required. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, Pilates instructors must carry certification to teach the classes. Organizations such as the American Sports and Fitness Association offer advanced certifications in other areas such as sports nutrition, water aerobics and kettlebell instruction to complement your basic step class aerobics training.
Options
To move into management of a fitness facility or increase your pay scale, various degrees and certifications may be required. A bachelors degree in kinesiology, physical therapy or exercise science could lead to jobs teaching aerobics to rehab patients, senior citizens or children. Personal trainers often increase their income and potential client base with advanced degrees and certifications. Weight reduction clinics hire aerobics instructors with degrees and certifications to work with medically supervised groups of clients.
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